Leather was one of the first materials used by man, and has continued being used throughout history. Pieces of leatherwork are still a constant find by modern day archeologists, anything from clothing to shields used long ago. Leather provided clothing, shelter and armament to mankind through the ages. It protected his feet, allowed him to carry things over great distances, and kept him warm. Leather is still used today. It can be found in your shoes, cars, and furniture. Modern leather uses a number of tanning techniques to achieve different purposes.

The oldest, vegetable tanned leather, is the best leather for doing decorative tooling. Tannins are a chemical found naturally in tree bark, and is where the term ‘tanning’ originated. However, vegetable tanning is a long process, so quicker methods have been developed. Chrome tanned leather is the fastest, and uses harsh chemicals to tan the leather rather than tannins. Chrome tanned leather can be found no farther than your feet.

If you look here on dA, you get a glimpse at the vast possibilities that can be done with leather. It can be carved, molded, worn, and bound. It can protect, carry, hide, form, and decorate. It can be painted, sewn, and buckled. It can be small, intricate pieces of jewelry or full body armor. Below are a few pieces I’ve selected from within the vaults of the Leatherwork gallery.


Leatherwork with DD’s:


Various forms of Leatherworking: